Famous Korean actor Lee Sun-kyun, best known for his groundbreaking role in “Parasite,” was found deceased in a vehicle in Seoul on Wednesday. He was 48.
Sun-kyun had been under intense police investigation for alleged drug use at the time of his death, according to The Associated Press (AP). Yonhap news reported the actor’s family reported him missing Wednesday, noting he left a message similar to a suicide note. Seoul Seongbuk police station said he was initially believed to have been found unconscious in the car but was confirmed dead by emergency officials, according to The AP.
The actor maintained he did not knowingly take drugs at the home of a bar hostess, and claimed he was tricked into taking them. He filed a lawsuit against the hostess and another individual, alleging they blackmailed him. He faced backlash over the rumored drug use, which is strictly prohibited in South Korea.
South Korean actor Lee Sun-kyun, who drew global attention with his performance in the Oscar-winning film ‘Parasite,’ was found dead following a report that he had gone missing https://t.co/HZcmMob7OI pic.twitter.com/YvsQG25tk2
— Reuters (@Reuters) December 27, 2023
Lee played the head of a wealthy family in “Parasite,” which won Oscars for Best Picture as well as three other top categories in 2020. The film was the first non-English film to win best picture in the history of the Academy Awards and marked the first time a South Korean movie took home an Oscar win.
Sun-kyun also won a Screen Actors Guild award for Best Motion Picture Ensemble Cast and was nominated for Best Actor at the International Emmy Awards for his role in “Dr. Brain” in 2022.
This is sad. RIP Lee Sun-kyun. pic.twitter.com/8CDOcgLXyc
— Jumbo de Belen (@bojamflipmusic) December 27, 2023
The South Korean actor was prominently known in his region for his work on the TV drama series, “Coffee Prince,” and the drama “Behind The White Tower.” He also starred in “Pasta,” and “My Mister.” (RELATED: Avocado Toast Inventor Bill Granger Dies At 54 On Christmas)
The police investigation into his drug use is now closed, according to The AP.